2013 Ionia Awards adds new, fun features

Once again, the time has come for all members of Ionia County to strut their stuff on the red carpet leading into the Ionia Theatre and one of the most anticipated events of the year.

The Ionia Awards is an all-ages event that helps celebrate the businesses, organizations and people of the entire county that assist in making the area a successful and enjoyable place for all.

Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tina Conner Wellman said doors will open at 4:45 p.m. for a social hour and check-in period, followed by hors d'oeuvres and drinks from local restaurants and businesses.

New this year, valet parking opportunities have been coordinated with members of RAVE, and all proceeds will benefit the organization.

Also, souvenir pictures will be offered by Becca Usher Photography. The photos will be processed by Walgreens and able to be picked up at the Ionia Area Chamber office the week following the event.

In addition to the new offerings, the game to win the big prize of the night has changed this year. Conner Wellman said game tickets are $10 each and there will be five "golden tickets" out of the 150 available. Those five tickets will be re-drawn and the first ticket-holder will win $400, the second will win $200 and the final three will win prizes worth $75. Other tickets will have a 50-50 chance of winning a prize worth at least $20 from local businesses, Conner Wellman added. Winners do not have to be in attendance to claim their prize.

To help create a fun and entertaining atmosphere, Rodney Hensley will perform as the night's emcee, which Conner Wellman said will be perfect following his outburst of comedy last year.

"I think last year people were surprised at how funny he could be," she added.

Many awards are up for grabs, including Ionia County Citizen of the Year, Most Promising New Business, Best Business to Watch and Ionia County Business Woman of the Year.

"(The Ionia Awards are about) creating an atmosphere where the nominees and those being recognized feel celebrated," Conner Wellman added.

Another award is "Putting Ionia on the Map," and this year members from the Lakewood High School Volleyball Team and the Portland High School Football Team will be honored for winning state championships.

"It's very exciting," Conner Wellman said. "It doesn't matter where you live in the county, as long as you're not playing against that team, you're rooting for wins."

Conner Wellman added the event welcomes attendees to dress in whatever makes them feel comfortable and fabulous, which can mean anything from jeans to a formal gown.

The Ionia Awards are meant to be enjoyed, said Conner Wellman, even if members of the community have never attended before.

"Everyone who attends leaves with a renewed sense of pride," Conner Wellman said, adding this event is for anyone who has ever wanted to have a small sample of a red carpet experience.She added she feels the ceremony is a great way to bring unity as a "county team" and make everyone feel exceptional and successful.Tickets are $30 per person, which includes a $13 dinner voucher for after the event, or $55 per couple, which includes a $25 dinner voucher. Participating restaurants include Corner Landing, Lamplight Grill, Gregory's Tavern, Olivera's, Renucci's Tavern and Candlestone Resort. Attendees may trade dinner vouchers for game tickets, Conner Wellman said.

To purchase event or game tickets, contact Tina Conner Wellman at 616-527-2560. For more information, "like" the Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook.